We are closing all gaps in our AI and digital infrastructure - Sam George
He said the assessment provided Ghana with a useful basis to benchmark its progress, particularly in areas including artificial intelligence skills, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and the country's digital contribution to the economy.
Ghana's Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, is leading efforts to close gaps in the country's digital infrastructure, AI capacity and cybersecurity resilience. During the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, George detailed how Ghana is utilizing the UNESCO Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) to identify and address deficiencies.
While Ghana excels in cybersecurity, the assessment revealed critical areas needing urgent attention, including AI skills, digital infrastructure and national contribution to the digital economy. A notable shortcoming is Ghana's lack of comprehensive AI-specific legislation, highlighting the need for robust regulatory and technical frameworks.
The government is taking action through a $200 million digitalization project to bolster critical digital infrastructure components, such as upgrading the National Data Centre, establishing a national data exchange hub, expanding last-mile connectivity and enhancing cybersecurity defenses. Additionally, Cabinet has approved $250 million for the creation of a National AI and Computing Centre, providing researchers, startups, universities and innovators with access to high-performance computing and AI resources.
George stressed this is a funded initiative, not merely a policy promise. He emphasized the UNESCO readiness assessment as a tool for international cooperation, enabling countries to benchmark progress, share best practices and develop unified solutions. George also called for improved international partnerships to prevent developing nations from over-relying on foreign cloud computing providers, advocating for data partnerships that safeguard national interests.
He urged UNESCO and its partners to provide tangible support, such as funding, infrastructure and expertise, to help developing countries build their AI and computing ecosystems responsibly.
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